Athlete asks judge to reject NCAA head-injury deal

CHICAGO — A former San Diego State football player wants a judge to reject the proposed settlement of a class-action lawsuit against the NCAA, saying it will deny billions in damages to athletes who suffered head injuries.

The request came in a new federal court filing on behalf of Anthony Nichols, whose head-injury lawsuit was one of ten consolidated into a single case in U.S. District Court.

Under the settlement proposed in July, the NCAA would set aside $70 million to diagnose current and former athletes for brain trauma.

Friday’s filing criticizes provisions barring the class as a whole from seeking a single sum in damages.

It says most individuals couldn’t afford to sue the NCAA and that athletes “get nothing but are forced to give up everything” in the settlement.